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Native Plant Synoptic Garden
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species well, and is potentially a hazard due to included bark. It should be considered for
removal and not incorporated into the final Native Plant Synoptic Garden.
There are a few other existing plants to bear in mind when finalizing plant selection in the
new garden. First, near the intersection of Foster Island Drive and Arboretum Drive, there are a
few large native tree species that could either be used in the design of the garden or removed.
They will also need to be evaluated for health and collection status. Second, there is a Taxus
brevifolia at the intersection of these two roads; if this specimen is deemed healthy and collection
appropriate, it is suggested that it either be included as part of the plan or transplanted to another
location. Finally, what little grass is present on site should be removed; it is not desirable within
the Native Plant Synoptic Garden plan. If grass is considered anywhere in this garden, it should
be included with the knowledge that it will create a need for increased maintenance and will not
meet the garden’s goal of
being relatively self-
sustaining.
Topography
The basic
topography of the site
consists of a North to
Northeast facing slope.
With the large trees on the
ridge and also to the south
of the site, there should not
be significant light
problems except for when
the sun is in the east; even
then, since most native
plants are adapted to this
pattern it should pose
relatively few concerns for
general plant health on the
site. Next, the ridge slopes
down from the ridge-line